Vinca minor

Vinca minor (common names lesser periwinkle or dwarf periwinkle) is a species of flowering plant native to central and southern Europe, from Portugal and France north to the Netherlands and the Baltic States, east to the Caucasus, and also southwestern Asia in Turkey. Other vernacular names used in cultivation in the English-speaking world include small periwinkle, common periwinkle, and sometimes in the United States, myrtle or creeping myrtle, although this is misleading, as the name myrtle normally is used for the Myrtus species.

Description

Vinca minor is a trailing, viny subshrub, spreading along the ground and rooting along the stems to form large clonal colonies and occasionally scrambling up to 40 cm high but never twining or climbing. The leaves are evergreen, opposite, 2–4.5 cm long and 1–2.5 cm broad, glossy dark green with a leathery texture and an entire margin.

Cultivation

Vinca minor is a popular ornamental plant, grown for its evergreen foliage, spring and summer flowers, ease of culture, and dense habit that smothers most weeds. The species is commonly grown as a groundcover in temperate gardens for its evergreen foliage, spring and summer flowers, ease of culture, and dense habit that smothers most weeds.

Medicinal Uses

The plant has been used in traditional medicine, particularly in homeopathy. It is believed to have tonic, astringent, and anti-hemorrhagic properties. However, it should be noted that the plant is toxic if consumed in large quantities.

Conservation

While not currently listed as threatened or endangered, Vinca minor's habitat is shrinking due to human activity. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure the survival of this species.

See Also

• Vinca major
• Periwinkle
• Homeopathy
• Conservation biology